Kutztown University president's contract extended

Dr. F. Javier Cevallos, Kutztown University president, is among seven heads of state-run universities to have their wage contracts extended.

The board of governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, which oversees the operation of 14 state-owned colleges, voted Thursday to extend the presidents' contracts through June 30, 2015.

"Each of the presidents who received a contract extension has demonstrated strong leadership abilities and commitment to student success," said Guido M. Pichini of Wyomissing, chairman of the board of governors. "They have provided both outstanding leadership and the vision necessary to lead an institution of higher education in these difficult times."

Cevallos, who's in his 10th year as Kutztown's president, could not be reached for comment.

In December 2010, Cevallos received a 5 percent raise, bringing his annual salary to $218,516, according to The Associated Press.

The contract extensions do not include any changes in compensation or benefits, said Kenn Marshall, a spokesman for the state system of higher education.

The pacts are renewed annually based on a performance review and recommendations by the university's council of trustees and Dr. John C. Cavanaugh, chancellor of the system.

The other one-year contract extensions were given to the university presidents of Bloomsburg, Cheney, Clarion, Lock Haven, Shippensburg and West Chester.

The Pennsylvania System of Higher Education operates 14 universities with about 120,000 students.